Your Technology Tax Deductions Debunked
Whether you’re a small business owner, employee or freelancer, tax-time deductions can be daunting if you’re unsure what you can claim. Some of us put complete trust in our tax accountant and others simply may not claim any deductions due to the fear of reprisal. Misunderstanding what we can and cannot claim leads to necessary work-related purchased being missed during the financial year, such as tech and tech accessories that assist us every day in our job.
According to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), if you purchase tools, equipment or other assets to help earn your income, you can claim a deduction for some or all the cost. Depending on the cost, this can include a portion of items such as mobile phone purchase and usage costs, tablet computers and laptops used for work, accessories like laptop bags, USB sticks and printers if used for work, part of home internet monthly costs, and apps used during work. For items that cost $300 or less, you can claim the entire cost. However for items that cost $300 or more, you can claim a deduction for the decline of value or its depreciation.
You may have had moments during this financial year where you’ve thought, ‘I’d love a new laptop bag’ yet never purchased as you didn’t want to cover the expense for a bag to carry your work laptop. If this sounds familiar and you’d like to stock up on work tech and accessories before June 30, check out these suggestions below.
CODE REPUBLIC Luxe Work-Life-Travel Handbags | RRP $349 | Harvey Norman.
If you have been eyeing off that designer bag but know it won’t make the cut for the office and your needs, look to CODE REPUBLIC – a premium leather work-life bag that can be claimed as a tax deduction this end of financial year. Made for the boss lady, the collection combines the strength and space to carry everything you need including a laptop, iPad and more, with the aesthetic of a luxurious, feminine and stylish handbag. Featuring rose gold accents and a bright palm tree lining with integrated pockets, keys and small items are easily found and dedicated compartments securely hold your phone, water bottle, makeup and so much more. With supportive, reinforced shoulder straps, the luxe handbags will ensure carrying the world on your shoulders has never looked so good! CODE REPUBLIC’s handbags are functional and stylish – finally a beautiful and functional handbag that you can claim as a work-related expense.
Belkin QODE Ultimate Lite Keyboard Case for iPad 9.7”(2018) | www.belkin.com/au | RRP $149.95.
Complete your office set up with Belkin’s QODE Ultimate Lite Keyboard Case for iPad 9.7”, a thin and lightweight yet tough case that is both durable and packed with features. With the added benefits of being a tax deductable expense, this fully protective case keeps your iPad truly mobile, a premium aluminium keyboard with well-spaced keys delivers an enhanced typing experience, and advanced power management features preserve battery life. Holding your iPad at the perfect viewing angle for typing or switching easily to media mode for videos or presentations, it’s easy to use anywhere. Despite all that, it still manages to be extremely thin as well as the lightest keyboard Belkin has ever made, perfect for storing in your bag when commuting between meetings. This sleek and functional office item will not only enhance your working experience but keeping the receipt will also allow you to claim your tax deduction!
Alcatel A3 | RRP $149 | Optus.
If you’re after a second phone for work but don’t want to break the bank, the Alcatel 5-inch A3 might be for you. At only $149, the A3 offers innovative security features including fingerprint access to unlock your phone and protect sensitive data as well as private mode which enables apps and photos to be kept from prying eyes, such as sensitive work emails. Using private mode, up to five fingerprints can be programmed to give access to five different apps opened directly from the lock screen. Other value-adding features of this affordable smartphone include its bright HD display, as well as camera quality with a 5MP front camera featuring selfie flash, and a 13MP rear camera with LED flash which creates flattering lighting by day or night. Better yet, at a $149 price-point, it is immediately deductable!
Laser The Hills Wireless Charging Dock | RRP $89.95 | Laserco.com.au.
For anyone from small business owners to freelancers and influencers, smartphones and tablets are necessary devices used day-to-day. Ensuring these are juiced up and ready to go as you move from meeting to meeting, the Laser ‘The Hills’ Wireless Charging Dock is the ultimate tax deductable companion. The complete charging solution, this gadget features wireless and connected charging options, with a Qi enabled bed and four USB charging ports with accompanying holding bays at varied heights. The innovative design caters for both smartphones and larger tablets, allowing you to simultaneously charge multiple devices while keeping your desk space neat and organised.
